Nine games between 18 teams make up Wednesday’s featured NBA DFS slate. That’s quite the assortment of matchups, and players, to choose from. Unsurprisingly, this evening isn’t short on established, expensive superstars.
A big name or two can help carry your entire lineup. Still, any balanced budget requires some low-cost players as well. Here are three bargains to consider this evening in DFS and season-long fantasy formats.
Set your DraftKings fantasy basketball lineups here: NBA $300K Fadeaway [$100K to 1st]
SG/SF Buddy Hield, Golden State Warriors at UTA ($4,700)
At this point in his ten-year professional career, you know what you’re getting from Buddy Hield. The veteran is on the floor for one reason, and one reason only: shooting. Through 41 games, he’s averaging 7.9 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists (15.3 FPTS). Most important, the Bahamian is knocking down 35% of his 4.3 three-point attempts. As things stand, that would be his worst season-long mark since joining the NBA. Still, with Jimmy Butler injured, there’s room for the Oklahoma alum to contribute.
If there was ever a moment where Hield could shine, it would be Wednesday. The Warriors travel to Utah for a date with one of the worst defensive units in recent memory. The Jazz are giving up the most points (127.5) and most three-pointers made (15.9) per game to opponents. In addition, they’ve allowed the most fantasy points to opposing shooting guards. Hield is undeniably a boom-or-bust option, but all signs are pointing towards the former tonight.
PG/SG Kasparas Jakucionis, Miami Heat vs. ORL ($4,300)
The Heat, owners of the NBA’s quickest pace on offense, have been a fantasy gold mine. However, nagging injuries have made it difficult for head coach Erik Spoelstra. That’s the case once again this evening; four different Miami players are listed as questionable or out. Three of those names, Tyler Herro, Davion Mitchell and Norman Powell, are guards. As a result, there should be more minutes than usual up for grabs in the backcourt. If anyone stands to benefit, it’s Kasparas Jakucionis.
The Illinois product hasn’t lit the world on fire so far. Over 21 games, he’s posted 4.4 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists (11.3 FPTS). Still, he’s seen his workload increase in recent weeks. The rookie has logged at least 20 minutes in three of his last seven outings. That includes Sunday’s matchup with the Suns, which led to 25.5 fantasy points. Orlando wields a quality defense, but can struggle on the perimeter. The Magic have given up the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing point guards. That bodes well for Jakucionis’ chances on Wednesday.
SG Will Richard, Golden State Warriors at UTA ($4,000)
We’ll head back to Salt Lake City, where the Warriors will hope to take advantage of a terrific matchup. Butler isn’t the only name out of action; Jonathan Kuminga (knee) is also absent. That leaves an already thin depth chart in need of reliable contributors. Will Richard might be a rookie, but he plays like a veteran. The 23-year-old may never develop into a star, but he’s already impressed in Golden State. This season, he’s recorded 6.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.2 steals per game (14.9 FPTS).
As previously mentioned, the Jazz are human turnstiles on defense. That’s especially true when guarding the perimeter. The biggest obstacle for Richard tonight might be playing time. However, he’s notched at least 23 minutes in five of his last six appearances. What makes the youngster an appealing bargain is that he doesn’t need to score. Despite putting up four points on Monday vs. Minnesota, Richard snagged six steals en route to 22.5 fantasy points. With multiple avenues to contribute, Richard is an ideal end of lineup selection.
